Although English is widely spoken in Hong Kong, learning how to describe dates in Cantonese would be of great benefit to you. Mastering Cantonese dates will not only help you communicate better with the locals, it will also ensure that you won’t miss out on any important meetings or fun events in town.

In this article, we’ll go over how to say dates in Cantonese, how it differs from how to write dates in Cantonese, and even give you some background information on the Chinese calendar.

1. Traditional Chinese Calendar and Modern Calendar

The traditional Chinese calendar, which can be referred to as either 農曆 (nung4 lik6), 舊曆 (gau6 lik6), or 陰曆 (jam1 lik6) in Cantonese, is a lunisolar calendar which reckons years, months, and days according to astronomical phenomena.

Although modern day Hong Kong uses the Gregorian calendar which aligns with most countries in the world, the traditional Chinese calendar still governs some of the holidays (e.g. the Chinese New Year) and guides people in selecting days for weddings, funerals, moving, or starting a business.

2. Cantonese Years

年 (nin4) is “year” in Cantonese. To express a year in Cantonese, simply convert the number to Chinese characters and add them in front of the character 年 (nin4). For example, the year “2009” is 二零零九年 (ji6 ling4 ling4 gau2 nin4) in Cantonese.

More examples:

#

Chinese Characters

Romanization

Meaning

1

一八八零年

jat1 baat3 baat3 ling4 nin4

Year 1880

2

一九八四年

jat1 gau2 baat3 sei3 nin4

Year 1984

3

二零一九年

ji6 ling4 jat1 gau2 nin4

Year 2019

4

二零四七年

ji6 ling4 sei3 cat1 nin4

Year 2047

5

二零六六年

ji6 ling4 luk6 luk6 nin4

Year 2066

3. Cantonese Months

月 (jyut6) is “month” in Cantonese. To express a month in Cantonese, simply add the appropriate number in front of the character 月 (jyut6). For example, December is the twelfth month, so “December” in Cantonese is 十二月 (sap6 ji6 jyut6).

4. Cantonese Days

日 (jat6) is “day” in Cantonese. To express a day in Cantonese, simply add the appropriate number in front of the character 日 (jat6). For example, the eleventh day of the month is “11,” so 11th in the context of a date is 十一日 (sap6 jat1 jat6).

Note that 日 (jat6) is the formal, written form to express a date. If you want to express a date in spoken form, replace 日 (jat6) with 號 (hou6). For example, 一日 (jat1 jat6) becomes 一號 (jat1 hou6). Also, when there’s 二十 (ji6 sap6), replace it with 廿 (jaa6) when speaking. Take the 21st of the month as an example: 二十一日 (ji6 sap6 jat1 jat6) becomes 廿一號 (jaa6 jat1 hou6).

#

Chinese Characters

Romanization

Meaning

1

一日

jat1 jat6

1st

2

二日

ji6 jat6

2nd

3

三日

saam1 jat6

3rd

4

四日

sei3 jat6

4th

5

五日

ng5 jat6

5th

6

六日

luk6 jat6

6th

7

七日

cat1 jat6

7th

8

八日

baat3 jat6

8th

9

九日

gau2 jat6

9th

10

十日

sap6 jat6

10th

11

十一日

sap6 jat1 jat6

11th

12

十二日

sap6 ji6 jat6

12th

13

十三日

sap6 saam1 jat6

13th

14

十四日

sap6 sei3 jat6

14th

15

十五日

sap6 ng5 jat6

15th

16

十六日

sap6 luk6 jat6

16th

17

十七日

sap6 cat1 jat6

17th

18

十八日

sap6 baat3 jat6

18th

19

十九日

sap6 gau2 jat6

19th

20

二十日

ji6 sap6 jat6

20th

21

二十一日

ji6 sap6 jat1 jat6

21st

22

二十二日

ji6 sap6 ji6 jat6

22nd

23

二十三日

ji6 sap6 saam1 jat6

23rd

24

二十四日

ji6 sap6 sei3 jat6

24th

25

二十五日

ji6 sap6 ng5 jat6

25th

26

二十六日

ji6 sap6 luk6 jat6

26th

27

二十七日

ji6 sap6 cat1 jat6

27th

28

二十八日

ji6 sap6 baat3 jat6

28th

29

二十九日

ji6 sap6 gau2 jat6

29th

30

三十日

saam1 sap6 jat6

30th

31

三十一日

saam1 sap6 jat1 jat6

31st

5. Cantonese Date Format

The date is written in the following format in Hong Kong: [year]年 [month]月 [day]日 (nin4 / jyut6 / jat6). Simply insert the appropriate numbers in front of 年 (nin4), 月 (jyut6), and 日 (jat6).

Again, if you would like to say the date out loud, change 日 (jat6) to 號 (hou6).

18- 今日全部堂都取消

9. Conclusion: How CantoneseClass101 Can Help You Learn More Cantonese

Want to level up your Cantonese and learn more Cantonese phrases? No worries. With CantoneseClass101.com, you can have your daily dose of Cantonese whenever and wherever you want, through mobile apps, desktop software, and our website. We offer entertaining, engaging, and effective lessons on various aspects of the Cantonese language and culture.

Until now, we’ve delivered more than 750,000,000 lessons to thousands of happy students from all around the globe. You can learn Cantonese with over 1060 audio and video lessons delivered by our knowledgeable and energetic hosts, detailed PDF lesson notes, an abundance of vocabulary learning tools, spaced repetition flashcards, and a lively community to discuss the lessons with fellow learners. What are you waiting for? Download our lessons, enjoy our audio and video files, and start learning now!

And keep in mind that if you prefer a one-on-one learning approach and want to further accelerate your Cantonese learning, you can take advantage of our MyTeacher program!

Before you go, let us know in the comments how you feel about dates in Cantonese now. We hope you feel more comfortable about how to write dates in Cantonese—to practice, be sure to include today’s date in Cantonese in your comment! We look forward to hearing from you.

Although English is widely spoken in Hong Kong, learning how to describe your family in Cantonese will be of great benefit to you. Not only will it help you understand the local culture better, but it can also facilitate communication with the locals and show respect, especially considering that family is a strong institution here.

Want to learn more about Hong Kong families in general and familiarize yourself with basic Cantonese family expressions? Keep reading and let CantoneseClass101.com give you a hand!

In this article, we’ll go over essential information including family titles in Cantonese, family Cantonese words, how to say family in Cantonese, and family relations in Cantonese.

By the time you’re done with this article, you’ll be much more informed on family meaning in Cantonese, and will be saying things like “grandmother” in Cantonese like it’s nothing!

1. What is Family in Cantonese Culture?

Even though many locals have adopted Western ways of living, Chinese concepts like “family solidarity” and “family glory” are still prevalent. It’s also common for a grown-up to live with their family or parents, partly due to the sky-rocketed property prices and rent, as well as the strong emphasis on family bonding in Hong Kong.

Many HongKongers are living in nuclear families, usually with only one or two children, as most living spaces in Hong Kong are small. The traditional role of a mother is to take care of the family, though many HongKongers choose to hire a housemaid to carry out the domestic duties so that the mother can work full-time.

Age determines the seniority of a family. It’s expected for everyone to respect their elders in accordance with filial piety, a deeply rooted virtue in many Southeast Asian countries. HongKongers usually worship their ancestors at least twice a year, which stems from the belief that children are eternally indebted to their parents. This respect for seniority can also be observed through language; for example, “brother” is further classified as “elder brother” and “younger brother.”

2. Terms for Family Members in Cantonese

Unlike in English, there are very specific terms in Cantonese to refer to family members. For example, “grandfather” is further broken down to describe whether one is talking about the grandfather on the paternal or maternal side. “Sister” is further broken down according to age. Check out the detailed family tree in Cantonese below!

#

Chinese Characters

Romanization

Meaning

1

家庭

gaa1 ting4

Family

2

父母

fu6 mou5

Parents

3

父親

fu6 can1

Father (formal – usually only appears in writing)

4

爸爸

baa4 baa1

Father (less formal – applicable to both writing and speaking)

5

母親

mou5 can1

Mother (formal – usually only appears in writing)

6

媽媽

maa4 maa1

Mother (less formal – applicable to both writing and speaking)

7

孩子

haai4 zi2

Children (formal – usually only appears in writing)

8

小朋友

siu2 pang4 jau5

Children (less formal – applicable to both writing and speaking)

9

仔女

zai2 neoi2

Children (less formal – applicable to both writing and speaking)

10

仔

zai2

Son

11

女

neoi2

Daughter

12

兄弟姊妹

hing1 dai6 zi2 mui6

Siblings

13

哥哥

go4 go1

Elder brother

14

弟弟

dai4 dai2

Younger brother

15

姐姐

ze4 ze1

Elder sister

16

妹妹

mui4 mui2

Younger sister

17

爺爺

je4 je2

Grandfather (father’s father)

18

公公

gung4 gung1

Grandfather (mother’s father); interchangeable with #19

19

外公

ngoi6 gung1

Grandfather (mother’s father); interchangeable with #18

20

嫲嫲

maa4 maa4

Grandmother (father’s mother)

21

婆婆

po4 po2

Grandmother (mother’s mother); interchangeable with #22

22

外婆

ngoi6 po4

Grandmother (mother’s mother); interchangeable with #21

23

孫仔

syun1 zai2

Grandson (son’s son)

24

外孫

ngoi6 syun1

Grandson (daughter’s son)

25

孫女

syun1 neoi2

Granddaughter (son’s daughter)

26

外孫女

ngoi6 syun1 neoi2

Granddaughter (daughter’s daughter)

3. More Family Terms in Cantonese: Terms for Relatives

#

Chinese Characters

Romanization

Meaning

1

伯父

baak3 fu6

Uncle (father’s elder brother)

2

叔父

suk1 fu6

Uncle (father’s younger brother)

3

姑丈

gu1 zoeng2

Uncle (father’s sister’s husband)

4

舅父

kau5 fu2

Uncle (mother’s brother)

5

姨丈

ji4 zoeng2

Uncle (mother’s sister’s husband)

6

叔叔

suk1 suk1

Uncle (general)

7

姑媽

gu1 maa1

Aunt (father’s elder sister)

8

姑姐

gu1 ze1

Aunt (father’s younger sister)

9

伯娘

baak3 noeng4

Aunt (father’s elder brother’s wife)

10

阿嬸

aa3 sam2

Aunt (father’s younger brother’s wife)

11

姨媽

ji4 maa1

Aunt (mother’s elder sister)

12

阿姨

aa3 ji1

Aunt (mother’s younger sister)

13

舅母

kau5 mou5

Aunt (mother’s brother’s wife)

14

姨姨

ji1 ji1

Aunt (general)

15

堂阿哥

tong4 aa3 go1

Elder male cousin (father’s side)

16

堂細佬

tong4 sai3 lou2

Younger male cousin (father’s side)

17

堂家姐

tong4 gaa1 ze1

Elder female cousin (father’s side)

18

堂細妹

tong4 sai3 mui2

Younger female cousin (father’s side)

19

表哥

biu2 go1

Elder male cousin (mother’s side)

20

表弟

biu2 dai2

Younger male cousin (mother’s side)

21

表姐

biu2 ze2

Elder female cousin (mother’s side)

22

表妹

biu2 mui2

Younger female cousin (mother’s side)

23

侄

zat6

Nephew (brother’s son)

24

外甥

ngoi6 saang1

Nephew (sister’s son)

25

侄女

zat6 neoi2

Niece (brother’s daughter)

26

外甥女

ngoi6 saang1 neoi2

Niece (sister’s daughter)

4. Terms for Family Members as a Married Person

#

Chinese Characters

Romanization

Meaning

1

配偶

pui3 ngau5

Spouse

2

先生

sin1 saang1

Husband; interchangeable with #3

3

丈夫

zoeng6 fu1

Husband; interchangeable with #2

4

太太

taai3 taai2

Wife; interchangeable with #5

5

妻子

cai1 zi2

Wife; interchangeable with #4

6

老爺

lou5 je4

Father-in-law (husband’s father)

7

外父

ngoi6 fu2

Father-in-law (wife’s father)

8

奶奶

naai4 naai2

Mother-in-law (husband’s mother)

9

外母

ngoi6 mou2

Mother-in-law (wife’s mother)

10

姐夫

ze2 fu1

Brother-in-law (elder sister’s husband)

11

妹夫

mui6 fu1

Brother-in-law (younger sister’s husband)

12

大舅

daai6 kau5

Brother-in-law (husband’s elder brother)

13

舅仔

kau5 zai2

Brother-in-law (husband’s younger brother)

14

大伯

daai6 baak3

Brother-in-law (wife’s elder brother)

15

叔仔

suk1 zai2

Brother-in-law (wife’s younger brother)

16

阿嫂

aa3 sou2

Sister-in-law (elder brother’s wife)

17

弟婦

dai6 fu5

Sister-in-law (younger brother’s wife)

18

姑奶

gu1 naai1

Sister-in-law (husband’s elder sister)

19

姑仔

gu1 zai2

Sister-in-law (husband’s younger sister)

20

大姨

daai6 ji1

Sister-in-law (wife’s elder sister)

21

姨仔

ji1 zai2

Sister-in-law (wife’s younger sister)

22

女婿

neoi5 sai3

Son-in-law

23

新抱

san1 pou5

Daughter-in-law

5. Endearment Terms for the Family in Cantonese

#

Chinese Characters

Romanization

Meaning

1

阿爸

aa3 baa4

Father

2

爹地

de1 di4

Father

3

老豆

lou5 dau6

Father

4

阿媽

aa3 maa1

Mother

5

媽咪

maa1 mi4

Mother

6

老母

lou5 mou2

Mother

7

大佬

daai6 lou2

Elder brother

8

細佬

sai3 lou2

Younger brother

9

家姐

gaa1 ze1

Elder sister

10

細妹

sai3 mui2

Younger sister

11

老公

lou5 gung1

Husband

12

老婆

lou5 po4

Wife

6. Simple Sentences to Talk About Family in Cantonese

1- 我係你爸爸

Romanization:ngo5 hai6 nei5 baa4 baa1Meaning: I am your father.

Additional Notes:

係 (hai6) is a verb with many different functions and often translates as “to be.” However, we primarily use 係 (hai6) to express that one noun is equivalent to another, as in the sentence 我係你爸爸 (ngo5 hai6 nei5 baa4 baa1). In a simple sentence using 係 (hai6), the meaning of the noun after 係 (hai6) is usually more general than the noun before 係 (hai6). Only when both nouns are equally specific can they be interchanged.

11- 我係溫特沃斯嘅老婆

12- 安妮係我嘅表妹

How CantoneseClass101.com Can Help You Learn More Cantonese

Want to level up your Cantonese and learn more Cantonese phrases? No worries. With CantoneseClass101.com, you can have your daily dose of Cantonese whenever and wherever you want, through mobile apps, desktop software, and our website. We offer entertaining, engaging, and effective lessons on various aspects of the Cantonese language and culture.

Until now, we’ve delivered more than 750,000,000 lessons to thousands of happy students from all around the globe. You can learn Cantonese with over 1060 audio and video lessons delivered by our knowledgeable and energetic hosts, detailed PDF lesson notes, an abundance of vocabulary learning tools, spaced repetition flashcards, and a lively community to discuss the lessons with fellow learners. What are you waiting for? Download our lessons, enjoy our audio and video files, and start learning now!

And keep in mind that if you prefer a one-on-one learning approach and want to further accelerate your Cantonese learning, you can take advantage of our MyTeacher program!

Before you go, let us know in the comments how you feel about using family words in Cantonese now. More comfortable, or still confused about something we went over? We know it’s a lot to take in, so feel free to reach out with questions or concerns!

During the Winter Solstice Festival, Hong Kong prepares to celebrate the coming New Year with family and loved ones. In this article, you’ll learn about how Hongkongers celebrate the Chinese Winter Solstice, and why!

At CantoneseClass101.com, we hope to make every aspect of your language-learning journey both fun and informative—starting with this article.

Let’s delve into this rich and cozy aspect of Hong Kong culture together!

Chinese people observed astronomy and the laws of nature, and found that the Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year. After that day, the daytime gradually becomes longer, and spring comes as winter fades away. Hence, the start of a new year actually starts on Winter Solstice instead of the Lunar New Year.

2. When is the Winter Solstice Festival?

Each year, the Winter Solstice occurs on December 21 or December 22.

3. How Hongkongers Celebrate the Winter Solstice

On Winter Solstice, Hongkongers usually visit the temple, and then everyone has a family reunion and dines together. This is called zou dung. A delicious sumptuous dinner with family and friends, followed by glutinous rice balls as dessert, all while enjoying bonding and reuniting with everyone, is the best way to start a new year.

Do you know why eating glutinous rice balls is a custom during the Winter Solstice? Glutinous rice balls are a round-shaped dessert made of glutinous rice flour, and symbolize reunion. In some areas, eating glutinous rice balls on Winter Solstice represents a person adding a year to their age. There are various types of fillings in glutinous rice balls; the most common are black sesame and peanut, as well as the Shanghainese-style glutinous rice balls in sweet osmanthus and glutinous rice wine.

For the Chinese Winter Solstice Festival, Hong Kong companies let their employees go home one or two hours before schedule, so they can go home earlier and enjoy family time and the sumptuous end-of-the-year dinner.

4. Winter Solstice as a Public Holiday

In which region is Winter Solstice a public holiday?

Trick question! Actually, Winter Solstice isn’t a public holiday in Hong Kong. Therefore, kids and even some adults don’t pay much attention to it.

Macau is the only region among all Chinese societies that classifies Winter Solstice as a public holiday.

5. Must-Know Vocabulary for Winter Solstice in Hong Kong

Here’s some essential Cantonese vocabulary you should know for the Winter Solstice in Hong Kong!

冬天 (dung1 tin1) — Winter

雲吞 (wan4 tan1) — Wonton dumpling

冬大過年 (dung1 daai6 gwo3 nin4) — Winter Solstice is more important than Chinese New Year

To hear each of these vocabulary words pronounced, and to read them alongside relevant images, be sure to check out our Cantonese Winter Solstice vocabulary list! Once you have these words down, you’ll be a step closer to talk about the Winter Solstice in Cantonese. 😉

Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed learning about this fun and festive holiday with us! What are your thoughts on the Winter Solstice? CantoneseClass101.com aims to make the process of learning Cantonese a painless and exciting experience, and what better way than by digging into Cantonese culture?

If you’re interested in learning more about Hong Kong and her people, you may find the following pages useful:

Learning Cantonese doesn’t have to be boring or overwhelming—with CantoneseClass101.com, it can even be fun! If you’re serious about leveling up your Cantonese skills, create your free lifetime account today!

Even though English is widely spoken in Hong Kong, learning Cantonese travel phrases can still be of great benefit to you. Not only will it help you navigate through the world’s greatest city better, but it can also serve as a conversation starter with the locals and help you understand the culture better. That’s why we’ve put together this guide about Cantonese travel phrases for those who speak English.

Can’t wait to put some Cantonese travel phrases in your pocket? Read below and let CantoneseClass101.com give you a hand with our Hong Kong travel words list! Here, you’ll find Cantonese travel phrases and words translated to English to help you navigate the country.

1. 唔該

2. 多謝

Additional Notes:
You should always say 多謝 (do1 ze6) when you receive a gift, regardless of the person’s age or seniority. Being polite will help you fit in and be appreciated by your peers. Thus, this is one of the most important travel phrases in Cantonese for you to learn.

3. 對唔住

Romanization:deoi3 m4 zyu6.Meaning: Sorry.

Additional Notes:
This phrase literally means “sorry” and can be used in both formal and informal settings. Note that we only use this phrase when we want to express our apology and remorse. If you want to say that you’re sorry in the sense of expressing your regret or sadness over a news story or an incident, 唔好意思 (m4 ho2 ji3 si3) is more suitable.

4. 唔好意思

Romanization:m4 ho2 ji3 si3Meaning: Excuse me. / Sorry.

Additional Notes:
There are, broadly, three scenarios where you can use 唔好意思 (m4 ho2 ji3 si3):

To grab someone’s attention (e.g. “excuse me”).

To express your regret or sadness over bad news or an incident.

To apologize for minor incidents.

Comparatively, 對唔住 (deoi3 m4 zyu6) is more formal and is mainly reserved for serious offenses. When you’re speaking informally with friends, the most common apology is 唔好意思 (m4 hou2 ji3 si3).

1. 呢班車去邊度㗎?

2. 我可以點去__呀?

Romanization:ngo5 ho2 ji5 dim2 heoi3 __ aa3Meaning: How do I get to __?

Additional Notes:
You fill in the blank with the place you want to get to, like 車站 (ce1 zaam6) meaning “bus stop,” 機場 (gei1 coeng4) meaning “the airport,” or 酒店 (zau2 dim3) meaning “hotel.” Learning this sentence will definitely help you navigate through and explore the city—if you don’t know how to get to an attraction or a restaurant that you’d like to try out, use this!

3. 一張去__嘅飛, 唔該

Additional Notes:
You can fill in the blank with the place or town you want to go to, such as 元朗 (jyun4 long5), 銅鑼灣 (tung4 lo4 waan1), and 西貢 (sai1 gung3). You may want to check in advance to discover what each town in Hong Kong has to offer.

4. 班火車會幾點到呀?

Additional Notes:
The railway systems in Hong Kong are some of the most efficient, where trains come in every other minute during peak hour. But still, time is limited for travelers, and it wouldn’t hurt to learn this phrase and put it in your pocket.

9. 可唔可以換細一個碼？

4. Restaurants

Eating out and enjoying local cuisine—maybe the best part of traveling to a new country. Take some time to study these Cantonese travel phrases in English, and practice them in Cantonese. This will make your dining experience superb!

3. 我食素

4. 我想要___

Additional Notes:
You can fill in the blank with the food that you’d like to get, like 牛 (ngau4) meaning “beef,” 蔬菜 (so1 coi3) meaning “vegetables,” and 多士 (do1 si2) meaning “toast.”

5. 唔該埋單

Romanization:m4 goi1 maai4 daan1.Meaning: Check, please.

5. Asking for and Giving Directions

When studying travel phrases to learn Cantonese, you absolutely can’t forget about directions. Here are the most basic travel phrases in Hong Kong local language to help you get around without getting lost!

1. 可唔可以喺張地圖度指俾我睇呀?

When you ask for directions, you may get a short answer: 向南行 (hoeng3 naam4 hang4), which means “Walk in the direction of south.” But of course, “south” is just one example, and the direction can be replaced by most of the words below.

2. 北

Romanization:bak1Meaning: North

3. 南

Romanization:naam4Meaning: South

4. 東

Romanization:dung1Meaning: East

5. 西

Romanization:sai1Meaning: West

6. 左

Romanization:zo2Meaning: Left

7. 右

Romanization:jau6Meaning: Right

8. 直行

Romanization:zik6 hang4.Meaning: Go straight.

6. Emergencies

In an emergency, knowing these travel phrases in Hong Kong local language may just save the day!

1. 救命!

Romanization:gau3 ming6!Meaning: Help!

Additional Notes:
You can call either 112 or 999 when you encounter an emergency. These are the most common emergency telephone numbers that can be dialed, free of charge, from most mobile telephones, even if they’re locked.

4. 我唔明.

5. 呢度有冇人識講英文呀?

9. Conclusion: How CantoneseClass101.com Can Help You Learn More Cantonese

We went over a lot of useful Cantonese travel phrases, didn’t we? We hope you can see why travel phrases in Cantonese language learning are so vital, and how they can help you have a much better visit to Hong Kong.

Want to level up your Cantonese? No worries. With CantoneseClass101.com, you can have your daily dose of Cantonese whenever and wherever you want, through mobile apps, desktop software, and our website. We offer entertaining, engaging, and effective lessons on various aspects of the Cantonese language and culture.

Until now, we’ve delivered more than 750,000,000 lessons to thousands of happy students from all around the globe. You can learn Cantonese with over 1060 audio and video lessons delivered by our knowledgeable and energetic hosts, detailed PDF lesson notes, an abundance of vocabulary learning tools, spaced repetition flashcards, and a lively community to discuss the lessons with fellow learners. What are you waiting for? Download our lessons, enjoy our audio and video files, and start learning now!

And keep in mind that if you prefer a one-on-one learning approach and want to further accelerate your Cantonese learning, you can take advantage of our MyTeacher program when you upgrade to Premium Plus!

Numbers are essential in our daily lives—whether we use them to express time, negotiate prices, record dates, or count. Learning Cantonese numbers will definitely help you navigate Canto-speaking cities better, and that’s what our Cantonese lessons about numbers hope to achieve. So let CantoneseClass101 guide you through the world of Cantonese numbers.

Below are different categories of Cantonese numbers and relevant phrases, including the basic Cantonese numbers 1-10. Are you ready to learn Cantonese numbers and practice these Cantonese numbers in English?

1. Cantonese Numbers 0-9

You can use both digits or Cantonese characters to express numbers. For example, if you want to express “zero,” you can either use 0 or 零 (ling4). Also, as you can see below, when it comes to Cantonese numbers, tones are still important.

3. Cantonese Numbers up to 1000

Now that we’ve basically covered numbers in Cantonese 1-100, it’s time to count even higher!

百 (baak3) is equivalent to “hundred” in English. If you want to express “two-hundred,” “three-hundred,” and so on, just add the Cantonese equivalent of the first digit in front of 百 (baak3).

Take “two-hundred” for example:
“Two-hundred” is “200,” and the Cantonese equivalent of the first digit “2” is 二 (ji6). Adding 二 (ji6) in front of 百 (baak3), we have 二百 (ji6 baak3) for “two-hundred.”

When the number reaches a thousand, 百 (baak3) turns to 千 (cin1), and we have 一千 (jat1 cin1) for “1000.”

Counting by hundreds, here are Cantonese numbers from 200-1000:

200: 二百 (ji6 baak3)

300: 三百 (saam1 baak3)

400: 四百 (sei3 baak3)

500: 五百 (ng5 baak3)

600: 六百 (luk6 baak3)

700: 七百 (cat1 baak3)

800: 八百 (baat3 baak3)

900: 九百 (gau2 baak3)

1000: 一千 (jat1 cin1)

Again, expressing “one-hundred and one” up to “nine-hundred and ninety-nine” in Cantonese is simple and similar to English.

For example, if you want to express “one-hundred and twenty-one,” you just need to combine “100” (一百 [jat1 baak3]) and “21” (二十一 [ji6 sap6 jat1]), and you have 一百二十一 (jat1 baak3 ji6 sap6 jat1) in Cantonese.

Note that if the second digit of a three-digit number is “0,” we need to add 零 (ling4) in the middle.

Take “207” as an example. In addition to “200” (二百 [ji6 baak3]) and “7” (七 [cat1]), we also need to include “0” (零 [ling4]) in the middle. Hence, “207” is 二百零七 (ji6 baak3 ling4 cat1).

4. How to Give Your Phone Number

To give your number to someone else, you can simply say the digits of your number in Cantonese. If your number is 91234567, you can say 九一二三四五六七 (gau2 jat1 ji6 saam1 sei3 ng5 luk6 cat1).

A typical Hong Kong phone number has eight digits. Mobile numbers usually start with 5, 6, or 9, and fixed landline numbers start with 2 or 3. Hong Kong’s country code is 852, and we don’t have an area code.

Numbers that aren’t eight digits are usually reserved for carrier/operator services or special services, such as 999 (gau2 gau2 gau2) for emergency services.

5. Shopping: How to Use Numbers when Shopping

Now, here are some useful phrases for an activity that you may not be able to resist, especially when you’re in Hong Kong: Shopping!

It’s easy to express prices in Hong Kong. You just have to say the number directly in Cantonese and add the word 蚊 (man1) to the end. For example:

$3 is 三蚊 (saam1 man1)

$18 is 十八蚊 (sap6 baat3 man1)

$100 is 一百蚊 (jat1 baak3 man1)

$612 is 六百一十二蚊 (luk6 baak3 jat1 sap6 ji6 man1)

$1000 is 一千蚊 (ljat1 cin1 man1)

You can use the below phrases to inquire about the price of something:

呢個幾錢？

Romanization: ni1 go3 gei2 cin2

Translation: How much is this?

嗰個幾錢？

Romanization: go2 go3 gei2 cin2

Translation: How much is that?

You can use the below phrases to bargain for lower prices:

平啲啦!

Romanization: peng4 di1 laa1!

Translation: Cheaper please!

可唔可以平啲呀?

Romanization: ho2 m4 ho2 ji5 peng4 di1 aa1?

Translation: Can you lower the price?

太貴喇!

Romanization: taai3 gwai3 laa3!

Translation: It’s too expensive!

我唔買喇.

Romanization: ngo5 m4 maai3 laa3.

Translation: I’m not buying it.

To practice the above phrases, especially the ones for bargaining prices, you can visit 女人街 (neoi3 jan2 gaai1). 女人街 (neoi3 jan2 gaai1) literally translates as “ladies market,” and is one of the most popular Hong Kong street markets and tourist destinations.

Even though it’s called the “ladies market,” the market actually sells everything, including the latest fashion for men and women, electronics, records, and even dairy products.

6. Bonus: Refresh Your Memory with a Cantopop Song

Need some help refreshing your memory of Cantonese numbers? No worries. We’ve got you covered.

In case our vocabulary list isn’t enough, you can also check out this Cantopop song sung by the veteran Cantopop singer George Lam. The name of the song is 數字人生 (sou3 zi6 jan4 saang1), meaning “A Number of Life.” As the name of the song suggests, it’s about numbers.

In fact, most of its lyrics are numbers that appear to be random and don’t make sense. Though it was released two decades ago, the “number song” is still well-known among Hongkongers. The government even decided to use it for promoting the 2012-2013 Budget Consultation.

7. Conclusion: How CantoneseClass101 Can Help You Learn More Cantonese

We hope you now see how important Cantonese numbers in language learning are! With basic Cantonese numbers, you can now exchange phone numbers and enjoy shopping in Hong Kong!

Now that you’ve mastered Cantonese numbers, it’s time to move up to the next level! With CantoneseClass101.com, you can have your daily dose of Cantonese whenever and wherever you want, through our mobile apps, desktop software, and website. We offer entertaining, engaging, and effective lessons on various aspects of the Cantonese language and culture.

Until now, we’ve delivered more than 750,000,000 lessons to thousands of happy students from all around the globe. You can learn Cantonese with over 1060 audio and video lessons, delivered by our knowledgeable and energetic hosts. We also have detailed PDF lesson notes, an abundance of vocabulary learning tools, spaced repetition flashcards, and a lively community to discuss the lessons with fellow learners. What are you waiting for? Download our lessons, enjoy our audio and video files, and start learning now!

You’re learning to speak Cantonese, and it’s going well. Your confidence is growing! So much so that you feel ready to share your experiences on social media—in Cantonese.

At Learn Cantonese, we make this easy for you to get it right the first time. Post like a boss with these phrases and guidelines, and get to practice your Cantonese in the process.

1. Talking about Your Restaurant Visit in Cantonese

Eating out is fun, and often an experience you’d like to share. Take a pic, and start a conversation on social media in Cantonese. Your friend will be amazed by your language skills…and perhaps your taste in restaurants!

David eats at a restaurant with his friends, posts an image of their food, and leaves this comment:

First is an expression meaning: “Whole group of friends try new restaurant together.”
In Hong Kong, new restaurants open up frequently. Sharing your eating experiences at new venues is one of the most common things to do on social media.

COMMENTS

1- 呢度真係又靚又好味。 (ni1 dou6 zan1 hai6 jau6 leng3 jau6 hou2 mei6.)

His girlfriend, Karen, uses an expression meaning – “It’s really charming and delicious.”
Karen agrees with David that the experience is positive, adding her own take on it.

2- 果然好介紹！ (gwo2 jin4 hou2 gaai3 siu6!)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “A very good recommendation indeed!”
Will is pleased with David’s recommendation.

3- 做乜唔叫埋我 (ಠ_ಠ) (zou6 mat1 m4 giu3 maai4 ngo5)

His girlfriend’s high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “Why didn’t you invite me? (ಠ_ಠ)”
Maggie is disappointed that she’s not part of the group.

4- 好似好貴喎。 (hou2 ci3 hou2 gwai3 wo3.)

His girlfriend’s nephew, Tommy, uses an expression meaning – “It looks expensive.”
Tommy is the only critic, and he shares his impression of the restaurant with this comment.

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

餐廳 (caan1 teng1): “restaurant”

好味 (hou2 mei6): “delicious”

果然 (gwo2 jin4): “as expected; sure enough; indeed”

介紹 (gaai3 siu6): “introduction”

叫埋 (giu3 maai4): “also ask along”

好似 (hou2 ci3): “appear to be; be like; look like”

貴 (gwai3): “expensive”

So, let’s practice a bit. If a friend posted something about having dinner with friends, which phrase would you use?

Now go visit a Cantonese restaurant, and wow the staff with your language skills!

2. Post about Your Mall Visit in Cantonese

Another super topic for social media is shopping—everybody does it, most everybody loves it, and your friends on social media are probably curious about your shopping spree! Share these Cantonese phrases in posts when you visit a mall.

Karen shops with her sister at the mall, posts an image of the two of them together, and leaves this comment:

POST

1- 周圍都減緊價， (zau1 wai4 dou1 gaam2 gan2 gaa3,)

First is an expression meaning “everywhere is on sale.”
Many shops promote their sales campaigns via social media, and at the same time, consumers would tell their friends or followers via social media about the good deals they found.

2- 我同細妹都大出血！ (ngo5 tung4 sai3 mui2 dou1 daai6 ceot1 hyut3!)

Then comes the phrase – “I and sister spent a lot!”
literally 大出血 (daai6 ceot1 hyut3) means “to bleed badly”, but nowadays we use this term to refer to “having spent a lot of money.”

COMMENTS

In response, Karen’s friends leave some comments.

1- 我琴日都買到癲咗！ (ngo5 kam4 jat6 dou1 maai5 dou3 din1 zo2!)

Her high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “I shopped like crazy yesterday as well!”
Maggie shares a personal detail here, finding common ground with Karen’s post.

2- 你同細妹好似樣喎。 (nei5 tung4 sai3 mui2 hou2 ci5 joeng2 wo3.)

Her boyfriend’s high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “You and your sister look alike.”
Kitty comments on the two sisters’ looks.

3- 係？等我都去睇吓。 (hai6? dang2 ngo5 dou1 heoi3 tai2 haa2.)

Her neighbor, Lisa, uses an expression meaning – “Really? I’ll go check it out too.”
Lisa is pleased with the news about the sales and wants to experience it too.

4- 囧… (gwing2…)

Her boyfriend, David, uses an expression meaning – “Yikes…”
David leaves an eloquent one-word comment that speaks volumes! He probably doesn’t like shopping in malls, or he’s not crazy about the girls’ massive spending. This comment is open for interpretation.

So, if a friend posted something about going shopping, which phrase would you use?

3. Talking about a Sport Day in Cantonese

Sports events, whether you’re the spectator or the sports person, offer fantastic opportunity for great social media posts. Learn some handy phrases and vocabulary to start a sport-on-the-beach conversation in Cantonese.

David plays with his friends at the beach, posts an image of the crowd on the beach, and leaves this comment:

1- 天氣咁好又咁齊人 (tin1 hei3 gam3 hou2 jau6 gam3 cai4 jan4,)

First is an expression meaning “weather is good and we have all people attending,”
咁…又… (gam3… jau6…) is a common sentence pattern used to describe two qualities about one subject. It’s similar to “not only… but also…”, or “… and…”.

Then comes the phrase – “this time beach gathering is really successful!”
Hong Kong has a long coastline with many public and private bays and beaches; however, more and more of them are not suitable for swimming anymore because of poor water quality due to development and urbanization. A total of 41 beaches, about half of the ones suitable for swimming, are managed by the government.

COMMENTS

In response, David’s friends leave some comments.

1- 趁冬天之前搞多次啦。 (can3 dung1 tin1 zi1 cin4 gaau2 do1 ci3 laa1.)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “Let’s do it again before winter starts.”
Will seems pleased with David’s post and suggests that they play on the beach again.

2- 年青人，真係開心，Enjoy! (nin4 cing1 jan4, zan1 hai6 hoi1 sam1, ENJOY!)

His supervisor, Sam, uses an expression meaning – “All the young people look so happy, enjoy!”
The young crowd’s happiness on the beach catches Sam’s attention.

3- 邊個贏呀？ (bin1 go3 jeng4 aa3?)

His girlfriend, Karen, uses an expression meaning – “Who won?”
Karen is interested in the outcome of the game, and asks for more details.

POST

1- 誠意推介E神新歌， (sing4 ji3 teoi1 gaai3 E san4 san1 go1,)

First is an expression meaning “Sincerely recommend Eason’s new song.”
The phrase 誠意推介 (sing4 ji3 teoi1 gaai3), literally “sincerely recommending”, is used a lot in social media to share something you think people would like.

2- 好好聽！ (hou2 hou2 teng1!)

Then comes the phrase – “It’s really good!”
The duplication of 好 (hou2) in this phrase serves an exaggeration purpose, it only works when it’s followed by a verb. For example, 好食 (hou2 sik6), literally “good to eat”, is “yummy”; and 好好食 (hou2 hou2 sik6) means “very yummy”.

COMMENTS

In response, Karen’s friends leave some comments.

1- 都唔知原來你鍾意E神。 (dou1 m4 zi1 jyun4 loi4 nei5 zung1 ji3 E san4.)

Her high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “Didn’t know you like Eason.”
Maggie is learning something new about her friend today! Use this comment to make conversation.

Her neighbor, Lisa, uses an expression meaning – “He’s covering an old song. It’s pretty good.”
LIsa seems to know her music and shares an interesting bit of information about the singer, as well as her opinion.

First is an expression meaning “In one life, at least watch Madonna concert once.”
Many local and international singers perform live concerts in Hong Kong. AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong Coliseum and Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre are the most popular concert venues.

2- 超讚！
(ciu1 zaan3!)

Then comes the phrase – “Super thumbs up!”
This term actually originated in Taiwan, and became widely used in social media and magazine in Hong Kong.

COMMENTS

In response, David’s friends leave some comments.

1- 現場氣氛好High呀！ (jin6 coeng4 hei3 fan1 hou2 HIGH aa3!)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “The atmosphere is ecstatic!”
Will is obviously also at the concert, and shares his impression.

His girlfriend’s high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “You’re sitting in the front, that’s so good! I’m sitting way up in the back.”
Like the previous poster, Maggie also chats about her experiences of the same event, making for great conversation.

POST

1- 個電話自殺 (go3 din6 waa2 zi6 saat3)

First is an expression meaning “The phone commited suicide.”
Sometimes inanimate objects are personified to sound cute on social media.

2- 跳咗落樓梯… (tiu3 zo2 lok6 lau4 tai1…)

Then comes the phrase – “jumped down the stairs…”
A verb followed by 咗 (zo2) means the action or situation is placed in past time, marking perfective aspect or continuous state. Since Cantonese do not have verb conjugation, we use particles like this to clarify.

COMMENTS

In response, Karen’s friends leave some comments.

1- 阿偉，你識做啦！ (David, nei5 sik1 zou6 laa1!)

Her high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “David, you know what to do!”
Maggie doesn’t address Karen, but chats with David, knowing he’d be reading the post too. This is a clever way of keeping the conversation going.

Her boyfriend, David, uses an expression meaning – “Maggie, I’d buy her a new one even if you didn’t say so.”
David is being an awesome boyfriend! He clearly shows his caring consideration with this comment.

3- 係時候換部新嘅。 (hai6 si4 hau6 wun6 bou6 san1 ge3.)

Her boyfriend’s high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “It’s time to get a new one.”
Kitty states the obvious, just to participate in the conversation.

4- 啱啱出新款，跌得係時候。 (aam1 aam1 ceot1 san1 fun2, dit3 dak1 hai6 si4 hau6.)

Her college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “New models just came out. What good timing.”
Will is an optimist and sees this accident as a good opportunity to upgrade to a newer phone.

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

電話 (din6 waa2): “phone”

自殺 (zi6 saat3): “commit suicide”

樓梯 (lau4 tai1): “stairs”

就算 (zau6 syun3): “even if; given that”

換 (wun6): “change”

啱啱 (aam1 aam1): “just now”

新款 (san1 fun2): “new model; new style”

If a friend posted something about having broken something by accident, which phrase would you use?

So, now you know how to describe an accident in Cantonese. Well done!

7. Chat about Your Boredom on Social Media in Cantonese

Sometimes, we’re just bored with how life goes. And to alleviate the boredom, we write about it on social media. Add some excitement to your posts by addressing your friends and followers in Cantonese!

POST

1- 原來 (jyun4 loi4)

First is an expression meaning “Turns out.”
This term 原來 (jyun4 loi4) indicates that the following statement is a newly found idea that was unknown to the person before.

2- 放假冇嘢做都幾悶。 (fong3 gaa3 mou5 je5 zou6 dou1 gei2 mun6.)

Then comes the phrase – “having nothing to do on holiday is quite boring.”
This is not common in Hong Kong. According to the 2015 Survey on Hong Kong consumer travel spending patterns, its citizens spend around 70% of their holidays traveling abroad. The most popular destinations are Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Taiwan.

COMMENTS

In response, David’s friends leave some comments.

1- 悶？又話要執屋？ (mun6? jau6 waa6 jiu3 zap1 uk1?)

His girlfriend, Karen, uses an expression meaning – “Boring? You told me you were gonna clean up the house!”
Karen partakes in the conversation – is she serious here? Or perhaps teasing her boyfriend? Hard to tell!

2- 啊！阿偉，你死喇！ (o3! aa3 wai5, nei5 sei2 laa3!)

His girlfriend’s high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “Uh-oh! David, you’re in trouble!”
Maggie becomes part of Karen and David’s conversation, leaving a lighthearted comment.

His high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “There’s a pretty good physiotherapist nearby. When will you be free? I’ll take you there.”
Kitty shows her caring and concern in a different way, by offering to help David.

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

整親 (zing2 can1): “injure; get hurt”

膝頭哥 (sat1 tau4 go1): “kneecap; knee”

不得了 (bat1 dak1 liu5): “extremely; disastrous”

醫生 (ji1 sang1): “doctor”

康復 (hong1 fuk6): “recover”

物理治療師 (mat6 lei5 zi6 liu4 si1): “physiotherapist”

得閒 (dak1 haan4): “have free time”

If a friend posted something about being injured, which phrase would you use?

We love to share our fortunes and misfortunes; somehow that makes us feel connected to others.

10. Starting a Conversation Feeling Disappointed in Cantonese

Sometimes things don’t go the way we planned. Share your disappointment about this with your friends!

Karen feels disappointed about today’s weather, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

POST

1- 又熱又潮濕，好辛苦！ (jau6 jit6 jau6 ciu4 sap1, hou2 san1 fu2!)

First is an expression meaning “hot and humid, so tough!”
Weather in Hong Kong is hot and humid from May to September. Temperatures can rise as high as 95°F (35°C), and humidity levels can make it feel even hotter than it is.

2- 幾時先到秋天？ (gei2 si4 sin1 dou3 cau1 tin1?)

Then comes the phrase – “When will autumn arrive?”
The mild autumns have been becoming shorter than normal in the last few years (said to be due to global warming). Generally speaking, October and November are the autumn months in Hong Kong, it’s also the best season to visit.

COMMENTS

In response, Karen’s friends leave some comments.

1- 我日日都開行冷氣。 (ngo5 jat6 jat6 dou1 hoi1 hang4 laang5 hei3.)

Her high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “I turn on the air-conditioner every day.”
Maggie shows that she is agreeing with Karen’s post about the weather by sharing a personal experience.

Her neighbor, Lisa, uses an expression meaning – “Be careful. It’s easy to catch a cold when you go in and out of AC rooms.”
Lisa is clearly a very caring person. She expresses concern for Karen’s health, because moving between abrupt temperature changes can challenge the immune system. “AC” stands for “air conditioned”.

3- 我哋要著西裝咪仲熱。 (ngo5 dei6 jiu3 zoek3 sai1 zong1 mei6 zung6 jit6.)

Her supervisor, Sam, uses an expression meaning – “It’s even worse for us who have to wear suits.”
Sam also empathises with Karen’s predicament, but he points out that he has it even worse!

11. Talking about Your Relationship Status in Cantonese

David changes his status to “In a relationship”, posts an image of him and Karen, and leaves this comment:

POST

Let’s break down David’s post.

戀愛ing (lyun2 oi3 ING)
“I’m in love!”

1- 戀愛 (lyun2 oi3)

First is an expression meaning “In love.”
For teenagers, a relationship is only considered official when someone announces it on social media. And when the relationship gets serious, some couples even exchange passwords to their social media accounts.

2- ing (ING)

Then comes the phrase – “indication of present progressive tense.”
The use of “ing” following Cantonese is similar to how it was used in the present progressive tense in English verbs, which serves to indicate that the action is happening right now.

COMMENTS

In response, David’s friends leave some comments.

1- 叻仔！ (lek1 zai2!)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “Smart boy!”
Will is clearly supportive of David’s choice of girlfriends.

2- 對佢好D呀。 (deoi3 keoi5 hou2 di1 aa3.)

His girlfriend’s high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “Treat her well.”
David gets some advice from Karen’s friend, who seems to be protective of Karen!

POST

1- 準備咗成年， (zeon2 bei6 zo2 seng4 nin4,)

First is an expression meaning “After the year-long preparation”.
In Hong Kong, it’s common to start the planning and preparation for more than a year before the wedding day. If the wedding takes place at a popular wedding venue, or on a lucky date, it has to be reserved two to three years in advance.

2- 今日我哋終於結婚喇！ (gam1 jat6 ngo5 dei6 zung1 jyu1 git3 fan1 laa3!)

Then comes the phrase – “we’re finally getting married today!”
Weddings in Hong Kong are generally big, with 250 to 400 guests. Guests give cash gifts upon arrival. After the ceremony, everyone enjoys a banquet meal, which usually last for three to four hours.

Her high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “It’s so touching to watch my good friend get married.”
Maggie is clearly affected by this announcement, in a good way. She shares her feelings and shows her caring for her friend.

3- 恭喜晒！祝你哋幸福！ (gung1 hei2 saai3! zuk1 nei5 dei6 hang6 fuk1!)

Her husband’s high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “Congratulations! I wish you happiness!”
This is a simple but great comment to congratulate the couple and wish them well.

POST

1- 我哋個家庭 (ngo5 dei6 go3 gaa1 ting4)

First is an expression meaning “Our family”.
Possessive pronoun is not used in this phrase, instead the classifier of “family”, 個 (go3), takes its place. Note that different nouns use different classifiers.

2- 即將有新成員！ (zik1 zoeng1 jau5 san1 sing4 jyun4!)

Then comes the phrase – “is getting a new member!”
Many Hong Kong celebrities announce the birth of their children via social network. Unlike the western entertainment industry, it’s very rare for HK celebrities to do interviews or sell photos exclusively to a single publication.

POST

1- 令到我每晚都冇覺好瞓 (ling6 dou3 ngo5 mui5 maan5 dou1 mou5 gaau3 hou2 fan3)

First is an expression meaning “wakes me up every night.”
Paid maternity leave in Hong Kong is 10 weeks long. And since March 2015, male employees are entitled to three days’ paternity leave at 80% of their average daily wages.

2- 嘅天使。 (ge3 tin1 si2.)

Then comes the phrase – “this angel.”
In Chinese culture, new mothers have to do a “one-month postpartum home confinement” as recuperation. Many Hong Kong families hire a maternity helper to take care of the newborn and cook nutritious food for the new mother, as well as teaching her how to take care of the baby during this month.

Her neighbor, Lisa, uses an expression meaning – “Let me know if you need any help, I can come over immediately.”
Trust Lisa to offer help! Her comment shows care and consideration for the new parents’ needs.

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

天使 (tin1 si2): “angel”

感謝 (gam2 ze6): “grateful; thankful”

世界 (sai3 gaai3): “world”

似 (ci5): “look like; resemble”

靚女 (leng3 neoi5): “pretty girl; beautiful girl”

好彩 (hou2 coi2): “luckily; fortunately”

出聲 (ceot1 seng1): “speak up; speak out”

If your friend is the mother or father, which phrase would you use on social media?

Congratulations, you know the basics of chatting about a baby in Cantonese! But we’re not done with families yet…

15. Cantonese Comments about a Family Reunion

Family reunions – some you love, some you hate. Share about it on your feed.

David goes to a family gathering, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

POST

Let’s break down David’s post.

最緊要一家人齊齊整整。 (zeoi3 gan2 jiu3 jat1 gaa1 jan4
cai4 cai4 zing2 zing2.)
“The most important (thing in life) is to have the whole family healthy, together, and peaceful.”

1- 最緊要 (zeoi3 gan2 jiu3)

First is an expression meaning “the most important”.
In Cantonese, 最 (zeoi) “the most” can be followed by an adjective, a noun, or an adverb. In this case, the noun automatically becomes an adjective or adverb. For example, 最MAN means “the most manly (person)”.)

2- 一家人齊齊整整。 (jat1 gaa1 jan4
cai4 cai4 zing2 zing2.)

Then comes the phrase – “whole family be healthy and together.”
齊齊整整 (cai4 cai4 zing2 zing2) means “neat and tidy” normally, but when used to describe a family or a group of people, it means that everyone is healthy, harmonious, and intimate.

COMMENTS

In response, David’s friends leave some comments.

1- 唔該唔好tag我。 (m4 goi1 m4 hou2 TAG ngo5.)

His nephew, Tommy, uses an expression meaning – “Please don’t tag me (in this photo).”
Obviously Tommy is still young, and hopes to make an impression with negative comments!

2-

His supervisor, Sam, uses an expression meaning – “Didn’t know you have such a big family, so lively.”
Sam is making conversation by showing interest in David’s family.

3- 好多潮童喎，你D姪嚟㗎？ (hou2 do1 ciu4 tung4 wo3, nei5 di1 zat6 lei4 gaa4?)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “There are a lot of hipsters there; are they your nieces and nephews?”
Sometimes D is used on social media or instant messages instead of 啲 (di1), and it means “some; those” or “a few; a little bit”. In this sentence, it means “those”.
Will is also keen to know more about David’s family, and he does so in a joking, lighthearted way.

His high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “Haven’t seen them in a long time; everyone looks great!”
Kitty is a bit nostalgic, but she compliments the family for looking great!

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

最 (zeoi3): “the most”

一家人 (jat1 gaa1 jan4): “family”

屋企 (uk1 kei2): “home”

熱鬧 (jit6 naau6): “lively; exciting”

潮童 (ciu4 tung4): “hipster; trendy kid”

姪 (zat6): “niece; nephew”

精神 (zing1 san4): “full of vitality; in good spirits”

Which phrase is your favorite to comment on a friend’s photo about a family reunion?

16. Post about Your Travel Plans in Cantonese

So, the family are going on holiday. Do you know how to post and leave comments in Cantonese about being at the airport, waiting for a flight?

Karen waits at the airport for her flight, and leaves this comment:

POST

Let’s break down Karen’s post.

等上機ing~ (dang2 soeng5 gei1 ING~)
“Waiting to board the plane~”

1- 等上機 (dang2 soeng5 gei1)

First is an expression meaning “wait for plane boarding.”
Hong Kong International Airport is one of the world’s busiest airports and one of the world’s largest passenger terminal buildings (the largest when it started operating in 1998). It covers an area of 1,255 hectares and handles over 60 million passengers every year.

2- ing (ING)

Then comes the phrase – “indication of present progressive tense.”
The use of “ing” indicates that the action is going on now. Instead of following the verb, here “ing” follows the whole phrase 等上機 (literally “wait to board plane”). It’s a common way on social media to announce what one is doing at the moment.

COMMENTS

In response, Karen’s friends leave some comments.

1- 手信！！ (sau2 seon3!!)

Her college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “Souvenir!!”
Will doesn’t say much, but obviously he expects to see souvenirs when his friend’s family returns home!

2- 玩開心D!! (waan2 hoi1 sam1 D!!)

Her husband’s high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “Have fun!”
This is a short and sweet well wish, suitable for many occasions.

POST

1- 有冇人估到 (jau5 mou5 jan4 gu2 dou2)

First is an expression meaning “anyone can guess.”
Sharing funny novelties or new products is one of the common things to do on social media, it’s the perfect chance to show the world that you’ve already seen something before anyone else has!

2- 呢個係乜？ (ni1 go3 hai6 mat1?)

Then comes the phrase – “what is this?”
It’s a simple and short expression to ask what something is. Also, when you want to know what the thing is called in Cantonese, you can point to it and ask the same question.

COMMENTS

In response, David’s friends leave some comments.

1- 去廁所嗰陣用㗎？ (heoi3 ci3 so2 go2 zan6 jung6 gaa4?)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “You use it on the toilet?”
Use this expression to show you are feeling frivolous.

2- O嘴… (O zeoi2…)

His wife, Karen, uses an expression meaning – “Jaw-dropping…”
Karen is clearly amazed by David’s find. It must be something truly odd or fantastic.

3- 估唔到，開估未？ (gu2 m4 dou2, hoi1 gu2 mei6?)

His high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “No idea. What’s the answer?”
Kitty can clearly not answer David’s question, she doesn’t know the identity of the item he found.

4- 一早喺網上見過啦。 (jat1 zou2 hai2 mong5 soeng6 gin3 gwo3 laa1.)

His nephew, Tommy, uses an expression meaning – “I’ve seen it online a long time ago.”
Tommy is, for a change, not making jokes or criticising anything or anyone. He only makes conversation with this comment.

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

估 (gu2): “guess”

廁所 (ci3 so2): “toilet; bathroom”

用 (jung6): “use”

O嘴 (O zeoi2): “cannot help being shocked and amazed (literally “lips in shape of an O”)”

開估 (hoi1 gu2): “announce the answer”

一早 (jat1 zou2): “earlier on; long time ago; early in the morning”

網上 (mong5 soeng6): “online”

Which phrase would you use to comment on a friend’s interesting find?

Perhaps you will even learn the identity of your find! Or perhaps you’re on holiday, and visiting interesting places…

18. Post about a Sightseeing Trip in Cantonese

Let your friends know what you’re up to in Cantonese, especially when visiting a remarkable place! Don’t forget the photo.

Karen visits a famous landmark, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

POST

1- 呢度真係好靚好靚， (ni1 dou6 zan1 hai6 hou2 leng3 hou2 leng3,)

First is an expression meaning “It’s really really beautiful here”.
The duplication of the phrase 好靚 (hou2 leng3) in this phrase serves an exaggeration purpose. Unlike the double 好(hou2) pattern mentioned in lesson 4, this execution applies when 好 (hou2) is followed by an adjective.

2- 好想喺度住。 (hou2 soeng2 hai2 dou6 zyu6.)

Then comes the phrase – “I want to live here.”
There have been several mass migration waves in Hong Kong since World War II, most of them triggered by concerns about the political environment and economic conditions.

COMMENTS

In response, Karen’s friends leave some comments.

1- 發夢冇咁早。 (faat3 mung6 mou5 gam3 zou2.)

Her college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “It’s too early to be dreaming.”
Will seems to not be in favor of Karen’s wish to stay in this beautiful place!

2- 影多D相俾我哋睇！ (jing2 do1 di1 soeng2 bei2 ngo5 dei6 tai2!)

Her husband’s high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “Take more pictures and show us!”
Kitty is curious and would like to see more of the venue.

POST

1- 好耐冇試過咁hea！ (hou2 noi6 mou5 si3 gwo3 gam3 he3!)

First is an expression meaning “Haven’t been this relaxed for a long time! .”
Hea (he3) is a Cantonese slang term that means “relaxed; laid-back” or “uncommitted; half-hearted” when used as an adjective. When used as a verb, it means “to chill out”, “to hang around”, “to loiter”, or “to lounge around”.

2- 呢度真係超正！ (ni1 dou6 zan1 hai6 ciu1 zeng3!)

Then comes the phrase – “It’s beyond excellent here!”
超 (ciu1) means “super; go beyond”, and we use it for exaggeration.

COMMENTS

In response, David’s friends leave some comments.

1- 好明顯你喺度晒命啦！ (hou2 ming4 hin2 nei5 hai2 dou6 saai3 meng6 laa1!)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “You’re obviously showing off!”
Will is teasing his friend a bit.

2- 好好享受咁好嘅天氣！ (hou2 hou2 hoeng2 sau6 gam3 hou2 ge3 tin1 hei3!)

His high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “Enjoy the nice weather!”
Kitty seems happy that David is in a good mood and simply acknowledges this with a pleasant wish.

3- 唔該下次帶埋我。 (m4 goi1 haa6 ci3 daai3 maai4 ngo5.)

His wife’s high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “Please bring me along next time.”
Maggie evidently wishes to be where David finds himself!

4- 你幾時返？ (nei5 gei2 si4 faan1?)

His wife’s nephew, Tommy, uses an expression meaning – “When are you coming back?”
Perhaps Tommy is missing his aunt? That’s possible! He would also like more information with this question.

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

好耐 (hou2 noi6): “a long time”

明顯 (ming4 hin2): “obviously”

晒命 (saai3 meng6): “show off, boast”

享受 (hoeng2 sau6): “enjoy”

天氣 (tin1 hei3): “weather”

下次 (haa6 ci3): “next time”

帶埋 (daai3 maai4): “bring along; take along”

Which phrase would you use to comment on a friend’s feed?

The break was great, but now it’s time to return home.

20. What to Say in Cantonese When You’re Home Again

And you’re back! What will you share with friends and followers?

Karen returns home after a vacation, posts an image of it, and leaves this comment:

POST

1- 始終都係 (ci2 zung1 dou1 hai6)

First is an expression meaning “At the end, it’s still.”
We start a sentence with this phrase when referring to something that still hold the same value even after a long time.

2- 屋企最舒服 (uk1 kei2 zeoi3 syu1 fuk6)

Then comes the phrase – “home is the most comfortable.”
The lack of affordable housing has been one of the main livelihood issues in Hong Kong in the last decade. It was reported that the housing market has tripled in value since 2003, while the real income of the workforce hardly went up.

COMMENTS

In response, Karen’s friends leave some comments.

1- 捨得返嚟喇？ (se2 dak1 faan1 lei4 laa4?)

Her high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “You finally came back?”
Maggie was probably impatient for Karen to return home!

Her husband’s high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “Let’s have dinner on Saturday, and we can look at the photos.”
Kitty makes a good suggestion for a get-together.

3- 家，始終最好。 (gaa1, ci2 zung1 zeoi3 hou2.)

Her neighbor, Lisa, uses an expression meaning – “Home is always the best.”
Lisa agrees with Karen’s comment about home.

4- 買咗咩俾我？ (maai5 zo2 me1 bei2 ngo5?)

Her husband’s college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “What did you get me?”
Will pretends to care only about gifts!

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

始終 (ci2 zung1): “all along; always; at the end of the day”

屋企 (uk1 kei2): “home”

舒服 (syu1 fuk6): “comfortable”

捨得 (se2 dak1): “willing to”

星期六 (sing1 kei4 luk6): “Saturday”

順便 (seon6 bin2): “incidentally; at one’s convenience”

相 (soeng2): “photo; picture”

How would you welcome a friend back from a trip?

What would you post on social media when something is celebrated with great show, such as the Chinese New Year fire-work show?

In Hong Kong, it is custom to celebrate two New Years. These are the Chinese New Year and the New Year celebrated all around the world on January 1st. The Chinese New Year marks the beginning of one of the biggest holidays in the country, the Spring Festival holiday is celebrated on a different date every year.

21. It’s Time to Celebrate in Cantonese

It’s a festive day and you wish to post something about it on social media. What would you say?

David watches the Chinese New Year fireworks show, posts an image of the event, and leaves this comment:

POST

1- 恭喜發財！ (gung1 hei2 faat3 coi4!)

First is an expression meaning “May you have a prosperous New Year!”
This greeting is used very frequently during the first two weeks of Chinese New Year. Chinese New Year in Hong Kong is commonly celebrated with the family. The subways operate overnight on New Year’s eve so people can visit night markets without worrying about the time.

2- 今年煙花勁靚呀！ (gam1 nin4 jin1 faa1 ging6 leng3 aa3!)

Then comes the phrase – “This year’s fireworks are breathtaking!”
The annual Hong Kong Chinese New Year Fireworks are held at 8pm on the second day of the new lunar year, and lasts around 30 minutes. Most people watch it at the harbourfront, or rent a boat to get a perfect view from the harbor.

COMMENTS

His neighbor, Lisa, uses an expression meaning – “Same to you! And the most important (thing) is to have good health!
Lisa responds to David’s enthusiastic New Year wish with a remark about good health.

2- 祝年年有餘！ (zuk1 nin4 nin4 jau5 jyu4!)

His supervisor, Sam, uses an expression meaning – “Wishing you prosperity through the years!”
This is a common New Year wish that is often used.

3- 派利是！ (paai3 lai6 si6!)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “Red packets, please!”
It is tradition in Hong Kong that the married gives the unmarried a monetary gift in red envelopes or red packets. Will reminds his married friends of this custom.

4- 祝你一家人健康，快樂。 (zuk1 nei5 jat1 gaa1 jan4 gin6 hong1, faai3 lok6.)

His high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “Wishing you and your family health and happiness.”
This is another traditional, common way to wish someone well for the New Year.

POST

1- 巧開心！ (haau2 hoi1 sam1!)

First is an expression meaning “So happy!”
巧 (haau2) is the playful version of 好 (hou2) “very” used by Hong Kong girls on social media.

2- 多謝你哋同我慶祝！ (do1 ze6 nei5 dei6 tung4 ngo5 hing3 zuk1!)

Then comes the phrase – “Thank you guys for celebrating with me!”
Hong Kong residents with a HKID can enjoy free entry to Ocean Park, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, Hong Kong 3D Museum, and Trick Eye Museum on their birthdays.

COMMENTS

In response, Karen’s friends leave some comments.

1- 又大一歲。 (jau6 daai6 jat1 seoi3.)

Her high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “Another year older.”
Maggie reminds Karen that they’re getting older – after a certain age, this is not such a nice reminder any longer, especially for women!

2- 青春常駐，年年廿八。 (cing1 ceon1 soeng4 zyu3, nin4 nin4 jaa6 baat3.)

Her husband’s high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “Wishing you always (stay) young, like 28 years old every year.”
Kitty, on the other hand, wishes her friend eternal youth!

3- 牛一快樂！ (ngau4 jat1 faai3 lok6!)

Her college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “Happy B-day!”
Will resorts to the traditional birthday wish in abbreviated form.

POST

1- 祝大家 (zuk1 daai6 gaa1)

First is an expression meaning “I wish everyone.”
When wishing everyone something on social media, start with this phrase.

2- 新年快樂！ (san1 nin4 faai3 lok6!)

Then comes the phrase – “Happy New Year!”
New year in Hong Kong means a public holiday on Jan 1st. This greeting, literally “New Year happy”, is used very frequently during the first week of the new year. The subways operate overnight on December 31st so people can party till late and countdown to the new year.

COMMENTS

In response, David’s friends leave some comments.

1- 咁快又新年喇？ (gam3 faai3 jau6 san1 nin4 laa4?)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “New Year again already?”
Will expresses what many people possibly feels – time flies!

2- 你都係！祝你乜都掂！ (nei5 dou1 hai6! zuk1 nei5 mat1 dou1 dim6!)

His wife’s high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “Same to you! Hope everything is going smoothly!”
Maggie returns David’s wish with this comment.

POST

1- 聖誕快樂！ (sing3 daan3 faai3 lok6!)

First is an expression meaning “Merry Christmas!”
This greeting, literally “Christmas happy”, is used very frequently during the Christmas season. Christmas in Hong Kong is a time celebrated with the boyfriend or girlfriend and/or friends. The subways operate overnight on December 24th so people can party till late and countdown to Christmas day.

2- 今晚去睇燈飾。 (gam1 maan5 heoi3 tai2 dang1 sik1.)

Then comes the phrase – “Tonight go watch light display.”
Many buildings and all shopping malls in Hong Kong wear Christmas decorations and lightings, and there are brilliant displays citywide. A favorite activity during the Christmas holiday is to go sightseeing these different light displays.

COMMENTS

In response, Karen’s friends leave some comments.

1- 去邊度食聖誕大餐呀？ (heoi3 bin1 dou6 sik6 sing3 daan3 daai6 caan1 aa3?)

Her high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “Where are you going for Christmas dinner?”
Maggie wants to know more about Karen’s plans for Christmas.

1- 今日係我哋結婚週年。 (gam1 jat6 hai6 ngo5 dei6 git3 fan1 zau1 nin4)

First is an expression meaning “Today is our anniversary.”
When you want to announce something special about today, you start with 今日係 (gam1 jat6 hai6) “Today is…”

2- 老婆，愛你一萬年！ (lou5 po4, ngoi3 nei5 jat1 maan6 nin4!)

Then comes the phrase – “wifey, I love you forever!”
The last part is literally “I love you for ten thousand years”, it came from a Stephen Chow movie and is widely used nowadays to mean “I love you forever”.

COMMENTS

In response, David’s friends leave some comments.

1- 老公，愛你！<3 (lou5 gung1, oi3 nei5!)

His wife, Karen, uses an expression meaning – “Hubby, I love you! <3"
David and Karen are openly affectionate on social media.

His high school friend, Kitty, uses an expression meaning – “Time flies. Happy Anniversary!”
This is again a comment on how fast time passes, as well as a traditional anniversary wish.

3- 嘩！閃光彈！ (waa1! sim2 gwong1 daan2!)

His wife’s high school friend, Maggie, uses an expression meaning – “Wow! Showoffs!”
Maggie must be referring to the couple’s romantic comments, and the fact that they’re still so in love after a year of marriage.

4- Maggie，你唔恨得咁多。 (Maggie, nei5 m4 han6 dak1 gam3 do1.)

His college friend, Will, uses an expression meaning – “Maggie, don’t be jealous.”
Will chats with Maggie here!

VOCABULARY

Find below the key vocabulary for this lesson:

結婚週年 (zau1 nin4): “anniversary”

老婆 (lou5 po4): “wife; wifey”

老公 (lou5 gung1): “husband; hubby”

時間 (si4 gaan3): “time”

快 (faai3): “fast; quick”

閃光彈 (sim2 gwong1 daan2): “showoff (lit. “flashbang”)”

恨 (han6): “long for; want something badly”

If a friend posted something about anniversary greetings, which phrase would you use?

Conclusion

Learning to speak a new language will always be easier once you know key phrases that everybody uses. These would include commonly used expressions for congratulations and best wishes, etc.

Master these in fun ways with Learn Cantonese! We offer a variety of tools to individualize your learning experience, including using cell phone apps, audiobooks, iBooks and many more. Never wonder again what to say on social media!

How to say sorry is one of the first things that a traveler or a language learner should learn—knowing how to say sorry helps us better communicate and maintain relationships with new friends, especially in Hong Kong where we are famous for our politeness. That said, it’s quite important to learn how to say sorry in Cantonese culture.

There are various ways to say sorry in English, such as “I am sorry,” My apologies,” and many more. It’s the same for Cantonese; we have different phrases to express our apologies for formal, informal, and specific occasions. Let’s go through some of the most widely-used phrases for apology in Cantonese below together! Start with a bonus, and download your FREE cheat sheet – How to Improve Your Cantonese Skills!(Logged-In Member Only)

1. The Two Most Common Phrases

The two most common Cantonese phrases for saying sorry are 對唔住 (deoi3 m4 zyu6) and 唔好意思 (m4 ho2 ji3 si3). They’re applicable to a wide range of circumstances, so learning how to use them to say sorry in learning Cantonese is vital. When learning how to say sorry in Cantonese, these words and phrases may just be your saving grace in various situations.

1- 對唔住

Romanization:deoi3 m4 zyu6

Meaning: Sorry

Example:

Cantonese character: 對唔住，我打爛咗你部電腦。

Romanization:deoi3 m4 zyu6, ngo5 daa2 laan6 zo2 nei5 bou6 din6 nou5.

Meaning: Sorry, I broke your computer.

Explanation / Notes:
This phrase literally means “sorry” and can be used in both formal and informal settings. Note that we only use this phrase when we want to express our apology and remorse. If you want to say that you’re sorry in the sense of expressing your regret or sadness over a news story or an incident, 唔好意思 (m4 ho2 ji3 si3) is more suitable.

We usually put 對唔住 (deoi3 m4 zyu6) at the start of the sentence. As it’s a phrase rather than a word, we seldom use it in the middle of a sentence unless we’re quoting it as a noun phrase.

2- 唔好意思

Romanization:m4 ho2 ji3 si3

Meaning: Excuse me / Sorry

Example:

Cantonese character: 唔好意思，剩返七碼咋。

Romanization:m4 hou2 ji3 si3, zing6 faan1 cat1 maa5 zaa3.

Meaning: I’m sorry, we only have size 7 left.

Explanation / Notes:
This phrase is applicable to a wider range of contexts compared to 對唔住 (deoi3 m4 zyu6) and can be used both formally and informally. There are, broadly, three scenarios where you can use 唔好意思 (m4 ho2 ji3 si3), including grabbing someone’s attention (i.e. “excuse me”), expressing your regret or sadness over bad news or an incident, and apologizing for minor incidents.

To grab someone’s attention:

Cantonese character: 唔好意思，閘口喺邊？

Romanization:m4 ho2 ji3 si3, zaap6 hau2 hai2 bin1?

Meaning: Excuse me, where is the entrance?

To express your regret over bad news:

Cantonese character: 唔好意思，無貨喇。

Romanization:m4 ho2 ji3 si3, mou5 fo3 laa3.

Meaning: I’m sorry, it is out of stock.

To apologize for a minor incident:

Cantonese character: 唔好意思，唔小心踩到你。

Romanization:m4 ho2 ji3 si3, m4 siu2 sam1 caai2 dou2 nei5.

Meaning: I’m sorry for stepping on your shoes accidentally.

Comparatively, 對唔住 (deoi3 m4 zyu6) is more formal and is mainly reserved for serious offenses. When you’re speaking informally with friends, the most common apology is 唔好意思 (m4 hou2 ji3 si3). You can use both apologies to make your way through a crowd.

2. Formal Apologies

There are some phrases we reserve for serious and formal apologies, which are usually used in business settings.

3. Other Phrases

There are other phrases related to apology in Cantonese too. The phrases we’re introducing below, as well as the ones above, can sometimes be used together at the same time, depending on the situation. For example, if you want to admit that you’re the one at fault, apologize, and then beg for forgiveness, you could say: 係我唔啱，對唔住，求下你唔好嬲我 (hai6 ngo5 m4 aam1, deoi3 m4 zyu6, kau4 haa5 nei5 m4 hou2 nau1 ngo5).

4. How to Answer to Sorry

唔緊要 (m4 gan2 jiu3) is the standard way to reply to an apology, but you can use the other two phrases as well depending on the scenarios.

5. Manner & Gesture when You Say Sorry

In general, you should be polite and sincere when you apologize. Keep your tone flat and slightly tilt your head down. You can either look into the eyes of the person you’re saying sorry to or look down. We don’t have any common gesture that signifies “sorry.” We just say the words without any hand gesture or further body posture, such as bowing, as is common in some other cultures.

6. Written Form of “I am Sorry”

As you may know, there are two forms of Cantonese, one in spoken form and the other in written form. We speak slightly differently than we write. The above phrases are all in spoken form. So what about the written form of “I am sorry” in Cantonese?

Chinese character: 對不起

Romanization:deoi3 bat1 hei2

Meaning: Sorry

對不起 (deoi3 bat1 hei2) is the written form of 對唔住 (deoi3 m4 zyu6) and they have literally the same meaning. Although more and more Hong Kongeses write in the spoken form of Cantonese, it’s still impermissible to write spoken Cantonese in schools and formal writings. Also, we never speak written Cantonese in our daily lives.

7. Bonus: Hot Topic of the City

Have you ever pissed off your significant other? How would you apologize? How far would you go to ask for his or her forgiveness? Check out the video below to see how a man begged for his girlfriend’s forgiveness in Hong Kong:

8. Conclusion: How CantoneseClass101 can Help You Learn More Cantonese

If you’re eager to know more common Cantonese phrases and words on top of saying sorry, please do visit CantoneseClass101.com, where you can have your daily dose of Cantonese whenever and wherever you want, through either your mobile apps, desktop software, or even our website. We offer entertaining, engaging, and effective lessons on various aspects of the Cantonese language and culture.

We’ve delivered until now more than 750,000,000 lessons to thousands of happy students from all around the globe. You can learn Cantonese with over 1060 audio and video lessons delivered by our knowledgeable and energetic hosts, detailed PDF lesson notes, abundance of vocabulary learning tools and spaced repetition flashcards, and a lively community to discuss the lessons with fellow learners. What are you waiting for? Download our lessons, enjoy our audio and video files, and start learning now!

In the meantime, continue practicing how to say “I apologize” in Cantonese, along with all the other phrases we went over. You’ll be glad you did next time you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation in Hong Kong. Best of luck to you!

The Chung Yeung Festival in Hong Kong stretches down into history as far as the Han Dynasty, and is an integral part of Hong Kong’s culture and identity. This holiday comprises largely of two concepts: warding off ill luck and respecting one’s ancestors.

In this article, you’ll learn about the various Chung Yeung Festival traditions and the meaning behind them—including why HongKongers drink chrysanthemum wine and climb mountains on this day! You’ll soon see how essential knowing about the Chung Yeung Festival is to really understanding Cantonese culture today.

And at CantoneseClass101.com, we hope to make every aspect of your language-learning journey both fun and informative!

1. What is Chung Yeung Festival?

The Chung Yeung Festival, or the Double Ninth Festival, is a holiday with deep historic roots, having begun as early as the Han Dynasty period. This is a public holiday, and known to be a busy time for many shops and tourist locations in Hong Kong.

The Chung Yeung Festival in Hong Kong has traditionally been considered a day of bad luck and potential danger. This is rooted in the Chung Yeung Festival story, in which a man is warned of danger to his village and escapes to the mountains; because he survived his village’s disaster, the Chung Yeung Festival is also considered a day of warding off or escaping ill luck.

Further, many people take this day to pay respect to their ancestors.

2. When is the Chung Yeung Festival?

The Cantonese Chung Yeung Festival is celebrated each year on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month (hence its common name of Double Ninth Festival).

For your convenience, here’s a list of this holiday’s date on the Gregorian calendar for the next ten years.

2019: October 7

2020: October 25

2021: October 14

2022: October 4

2023: October 23

2024: October 11

2025: October 29

2026: October 18

2027: October 8

2028: October 26

3. Chung Yeung Festival Traditions in Hong Kong

Most Chung Yeung Festival activities are performed today in fun celebration, though traditionally they were done in order to ward off bad luck or circumstances.

Just as the man in the Chung Yeung Festival story escaped death by going to the mountains, HongKongers often climb mountains or hills themselves on this day. Others may simply go on a hike with family or loved ones.

Another common feature of the Chung Yeung Festival holiday is flying kites. The symbolism behind this is similar to that of climbing mountains. Essentially, HongKongers believe that flying the kite removes bad luck from them, up into the sky where it can’t get to them during the year.

Further, on a more solemn note, many HongKongers visit ancestral graves during the Chung Yeung Festival as a show of respect and honor. This is usually an occasion for the whole family, who offers their ancestors food, clean the sites, and burn incense.

4. Chung Yeung Festival Foods

During the Chung Yeung Festival, Hong Kong also celebrates through consuming the Chung Yeung rice cake and chrysanthemum wine. HongKongers believe that the wine (which they often make themselves at home!) cleanses the person drinking it, thus helping to remove ill luck. And as for the cake, it represents being “up” or “on top,” and when eaten, is thought to improve the chances of the consumer moving to a higher status in life.

5. Essential Chung Yeung Festival Vocabulary

Here’s the essential vocabulary to know for the Chung Yeung Festival in Hong Kong!

If you’re interested in a more personalized, one-on-one learning approach, be sure to upgrade to Premium Plus. Doing so will give you access to your own Cantonese teacher who will help you develop a plan tailored to your needs and goals. Yes, really!

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In Hong Kong, the Mid-Autumn Festival is an annual holiday that corresponds with the full moon, which represents unity. This is a time of family fun, fire games, mooncakes, and mythology!

In this article, you’ll learn about the Mid-Autumn Festival story and how HongKongers celebrate this special evening today. You may be surprised how much cultural insight you can glean in studying this holiday—and understanding a country’s culture is an essential step in mastering the language.

At CantoneseClass101.com, we hope to make this learning journey both fun and informative! So let’s get started.

1. What is Mid-Autumn Festival in Hong Kong?

On the evening of Mid-Autumn Festival, the moon is very round, because it’s a full moon. The full moon symbolizes reunion in Chinese culture, so families will gather together and admire the full moon while eating mooncake.

Now let’s talk about the mythology of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

There was a time when there were ten suns, which overheated the mortal world. So the Emperor of Heaven sent HouYi, an archer, and his wife, Chang’e, to the mortal world. HouYi shot down the extra nine suns and relieved the suffering of the people.

To reward him, the Queen of Heaven gave him two immortal elixirs. On August 15, while HouYi was out, his apprentice forced Chang’e to surrender the elixir. Chang’e accidentally swallowed the elixir and floated to the moon.

2. When is Mid-Autumn Festival?

The date of the Mid-autumn Festival varies each year on the Gregorian calendar, as it takes place on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month. For your convenience, here’s a list of this holiday’s date for the next ten years on the Gregorian calendar.

2019: September 13

2020: October 1

2021: September 21

2022: September 10

2023: September 29

2024: September 17

2025: October 6

2026: September 25

2027: September 15

2028: October 3

3. Mid-Autumn Festival Celebrations & Traditions

In Hong Kong, the Mid-Autumn Festival public holiday is actually on the day after, so that everyone can get the most out of the celebrations of Mid-Autumn evening.

1- Playing with Fire: Mid-Autumn Festival Lanterns

On this evening, children carry lanterns in the shape of their favorite cartoon characters, and teenagers play with candles, or even burn wax. However, because of the high number of fire-related disasters and injuries, as well as the massive amount of leftover melted wax in public areas, the government has listed wax burning as illegal.

2- Mid-Autumn Festival Food: The Mooncake

The mooncake is a special food unique to the Mid-Autumn Festival. Have you ever tried it? A traditional mooncake is round like the moon, but has diversified in recent years for commercial purposes.

Other than the traditional lotus seed paste with egg yolk filling, snow-skin mooncake and other new flavor variants are also popular in Hong Kong. For example: abalone, swallow’s nest, barbecued pork, and sesame. The snow-skin mooncake is a new style of mooncake that’s served chilled. Please give it a try if you have a chance!

3- Fire Dragon Dance

Another custom of the Mid-Autumn Festival is the fire dragon dance. You can see a fire dragon dancing on the streets of Tai Hang in Causeway Bay three nights in a row. For the fire dragon dance, you may see some eye-catching Hong Kong Mid-Autumn Festival clothing! In 2011, this activity was listed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by China, ensuring its continuation.

4. More Moon Mythology

Do you know what kind of animal lives on the moon in Chinese mythology?

In Chinese mythology, the animal that lives the moon is a rabbit. We call it Moon Rabbit, and it keeps Chang’e company. Scientifically, the distribution of the light and dark areas of the moon’s surface seems to create the image of a rabbit.

5. Vocabulary to Know for the Mid-Autumn Festival

Here’s some vocabulary you need to know for the Mid-autumn festival in Hong Kong!

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed learning about the Cantonese Mid-Autumn Festival with us! Let us know in the comments if you have any astrology-related holidays in your country, and how you celebrate. We look forward to hearing from you!

If you’re interested in taking a more one-on-one approach to your language-learning, be sure to upgrade to Premium Plus. Doing so will give you access to your own personal Cantonese tutor who will help you develop a personalized plan based on your needs and goals. Yes, really!

Cantonese is one of the most difficult languages to learn, so we commend you for your effort and determination! At CantoneseClass101, we believe that you really can master the language—and we want to be here to help every step of the way!

Have you ever heard of Albert Mehrabian’s famous “7%-38%-55% Rule“? According to this rule, tones of voice and body language account for 38% and 55% of personal communication respectively, with words taking up the remaining 7%. Non-verbal language is truly the key to successful communication. Therefore, in addition to teaching you new Cantonese words and phrases here at CantoneseClass101.com, we’re here to teach you the common Hong Kong body gestures to help you better communicate with locals! Truly, Cantonese nonverbal communication is just as important, if not more so, as the words you speak.

We’re introducing four different types of body gestures here, namely:

Body Posture

Hand Gestures

Facial Expressions

Physical Movement

To help you better master this nonverbal communication in Hong Kong, we’ve also included photos/videos and examples below. Let’s start now! Start with a bonus, and download your FREE cheat sheet – How to Improve Your Cantonese Skills!(Logged-In Member Only)

1. Body Posture

1- Defensive

When: To express distrust or that you’re unengaged; to tell someone that you’re annoyed or offended

Example: If someone has been talking about something uninteresting for a long time and you want to subtly let him or her know, you can cross your arms.

Notes: It’s best not to use this posture in business settings as crossing your arms is considered a negative and unprofessional posture.

2. Hand Gestures

1- Good

How: Thumbs-up (think of the “like” button on Facebook); one hand only (can be left or right)

When: To show that you think something is excellent, the best, or super good

Example: When your friend makes an excellent suggestion on what to do this weekend, you can simply give him or her a thumbs-up to show that you like the idea.

Notes: It’s a widely used positive hand gesture in Hong Kong, both in business and casual settings.

2- OK

How: Make a circle with your thumb and index finger; the three fingers left should remain upright; one hand only (can be left or right)

When: To show approval; to express that everything is going smoothly and is fine; to express “yes” or “well understood”

Example: When you’re asked to do laundry, you can give an “OK” hand gesture to signal that you’ll do it.

Notes: It’s a very common hand gesture in Hong Kong, whether in the workplace, school, or among friends and family.

3- Bad

How: Thumbs-down; one hand only (can be left or right)

When: To express dissatisfaction; to tell people that something’s not good or is of low quality

Example: If your kid broke your phone, you may show him a “bad” hand gesture to let him or her know that this is defintely not good.

Notes: This is less common than the “good” and “OK” hand gestures, as it’s best in general to avoid negative gestures.

4- Fist and Palm Salute

How:Male: right-hand half-fist, then hold the right hand in front of your chest with your left handFemale: left-hand half-fist, then hold the left hand in front of your chest with your right hand

When: To congratulate someone; to wish someone luck

Example: When you visit a friend in Hong Kong during the Chinese New Year, you can first say to him 恭喜發財 (Pronunciation: gung1 hei2 faat3 coi4) meaning “May you have a prosperous New Year,” and then perform this gesture.

Notes: This hand gesture is mostly used during celebrations, such as Chinese New Year and weddings.

5- Thank You (Restaurant Only)

How: Tap your fingers several times by your cup

When: To say thank you when someone’s pouring tea for you at a Chinese restaurant

Example: If your friends are pouring tea for you during yum cha, you can simply tap your fingers several times by your cup as a means of thanking them.

Notes: This should only be used in Chinese restaurants (dim sum place). If you want to know more about this unique and funny hand gesture in Hong Kong, visit the Loop.

3. Facial Expressions

1- Respect / Submission

How: Lower your eyes

When: To show someone that you respect or obey him or her

Example: If your boss is angry and you think it’s wiser to be (or pretend to be) obedient, you can lower your eyes when he or she is facing you.

Notes: When you’re greeting someone older than you that you’re not very close with, you may also want to lower your eyes to show respect. Eye contact meaning in Hong Kong has a lot to do with respect.

4. Physical Movement

When it comes to body gestures in Hong Kong culture, note that even though it’s typical in Hong Kong to stand close to each other during conversations, body contact doesn’t occur. Being touchy isn’t part of the Hong Kong culture. You’ll be seen as rude and impolite if you excessively touch another person during a conversation in Hong Kong.

Avoid hugging or kissing another person, or patting someone on the back. This is especially true if you’re interacting with someone older than you or someone in a position of authority—it will be perceived as offensive and rude. Hugging and kissing are quite rare, even if it’s when running into a close friend. Nodding your head is the most common way to quickly greet someone, and an acceptable Hong Kong body gesture to a close friend is a little pat on the arm.

1- Hello (Business Settings)

How: A little handshake

When: To greet someone, usually in business settings

Example: You can give a little handshake when you’re first introduced to a colleague.

Notes: This is usually used in business settings or for people we’re not close with. There isn’t any typical body gesture for greetings with friends.

2- Beg / Pray

How: Kneel down with both feet on the ground

When: To beg for something; to pray

Example: If you’ve made a terrible mistake, you can kneel down to beg for forgiveness.

Notes: This gesture signifies a huge degree of submission. Avoid using it unless you’re praying or you really need to beg for something.

3- Respect

How: Use both hands to hand over or receive something from someone

When: To hand over something; to present a gift; to receive something

Example: During a gift exchange session in a Christmas party, hand the present you’ve carefully prepared to your friends with both hands.

Notes: You should always hand over or receive things with both hands; using one hand is considered rude and impolite.

5. Gestures You should Avoid

Here’s an all-important list of Hong Kong body gestures that are considered rude, which you should avoid as much as possible!

1- Pointing to Someone with only Your Index Finger

When: To refer to someone

Notes: This is considered disrespectful and impolite; you should keep your hand open if you want to refer to someone.

2- Keep Only Your Middle Finger Up

When: To express anger or frustration; equal to foul language

Notes: This is very disrespectful and impolite.

3- Winking Your Eyes at Someone

When: To flirt; to show disrespect

Notes: Winking your eyes in Hong Kong doesn’t look cool; instead it’s a sign of disrespect and should be avoided.

Seven = Keep your thumb and index finger outstretched; pointing down looks like a number seven.

Eight = Add your middle finger to the number seven sign and point up.

Nine = Bend the index finger like a hook with other fingers closed.

Ten = Open the palm of both hands as two 5s gives you ten. You can also make a cross using only your index fingers.

7. Conclusion: How CantoneseClass101 can Help You Learn More Cantonese

After mastering the common Hong Kong body gestures, it’s time to learn more Cantonese to make sure that you can communicate in Hong Kong with the correct verbal and non-verbal languages. With CantoneseClass101.com, you can have your daily dose of Cantonese whenever and wherever you want, either through your mobile apps, desktop software, or even our website. We offer entertaining, engaging, and effective lessons on various aspects of the Cantonese language and culture.

We’ve delivered until now more than 750,000,000 lessons to thousands of happy students from all around the globe. You can learn Cantonese with over 1060 audio and video lessons delivered by our knowledgeable and energetic hosts, detailed PDF lesson notes, abundance of vocabulary learning tools and spaced repetition flashcards, and a lively community to discuss the lessons with fellow learners. What’re you waiting for? Download our lessons, enjoy our audio and video files, and start learning now! Start with a bonus, and download your FREE cheat sheet – How to Improve Your Cantonese Skills!(Logged-In Member Only)